How strict is Hawaiian Airline carry-on?

Hawaiian Airlines logo

Hawaiian Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge.

Your baggage must meet the carry-on size requirements and fit in the overhead compartment. Make sure your bag is not too big.

Your personal item must be small enough to be placed properly under the seat in front of you.

In this post, I’ll provide all the details you need to know about Hawaiian Airlines’ carry-on size and weight restrictions.

Hawaiian Airlines carry-on

How Strict Is Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Policy?

As stated above, Hawaiian Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge.

Your carry-on bag must not exceed:

  • Dimensions: 22” x 14” x 9” (45 linear inches) or 56 cm x 35.5 cm x 23 cm
  • Weight: 25 pounds (11.3 kg)

What Is Hawaiian Airlines’ Personal Item Policy?

You are allowed to bring a personal item that must fit safely under the seat in front of you. Personal items generally include:

  • Purse
  • Briefcase
  • Laptop bag
  • Small backpack

Regardless of the item type, it must fit under the seat in front of you.

Additional Items Allowed

Hawaiian Airlines allows passengers to bring small additional items free of charge. These do not count toward your carry-on allowance. Examples include:

  • A handbag or pocketbook
  • An overcoat, jacket, or wrap
  • A small foot rug
  • An umbrella or walking stick
  • A camera and/or a pair of binoculars
  • A reasonable amount of reading material (books or magazines)
  • Food (including baby food) for consumption during the flight

If you are traveling with food, you can find more about carrying food on a plane.

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Liquids Policy

When traveling within or from the U.S., TSA regulations apply to the liquids you can carry.

  • Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less and placed in a transparent quart-sized bag.
  • Larger containers must be packed in checked luggage.

What Happens at the Airport?

Before arriving at the airport, make sure your carry-on bag meets the size and weight limits. If you have any prohibited items, remove them before going through security.

If you are unsure about an item, check the TSA website or send a question to AskTSA on Facebook Messenger or X ( Formerly Twitter ).

Onboard the airplane, Hawaiian Airlines requires you to place your carry-on bag in the overhead bin. Do not take up more space than necessary.

Most passengers store their carry-on bags wheels first in the overhead bin. Jackets and coats should be placed on top of the bag. Smaller bags should be stored under the seat.

Note that Hawaiian Airlines reserves the right to stow any carry-on baggage in the cargo compartment if necessary, based on aircraft type, storage availability, or other conditions.

Do You Have to Pay for Carry-On on Hawaiian Airlines?

Carry-on baggage is free of charge on Hawaiian Airlines.

Keep in mind that additional fees apply if:

  • Your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limit and must be checked.
  • You are traveling with a musical instrument and need to purchase an extra seat.

Checked baggage fees vary based on your travel route (within Hawaii, between Hawaii and North America, or international flights).

Additional fees apply for oversized or heavy bags.

What Happens If My Carry-On Is Slightly Bigger?

A user on X asking if his bigger carry on cold be ok on Hawaiian Airlines

If your carry-on bag is slightly larger than the allowed size, it may not be a major issue.

It’s always better to stick to the airline’s size restrictions.

On busy flights or smaller aircraft, oversized carry-ons may be required to be checked.

Best Luggage That Fits Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Size

If you’re looking for a suitcase that meets Hawaiian Airlines’ carry-on size, here are two great options:

  1. Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable
    • Size: 22” x 13.5” x 9” (including wheels)
    • Perfect fit for Hawaiian Airlines’ overhead bins
    • Over 17,500 ratings on Amazon
    • Available in multiple colors and styles
  2. Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On
    • Size: 14.9” x 10” x 21.6”
    • Ideal for international carry-on
    • Spacious and easy to maneuver

Best Backpacks That Fit Hawaiian Airlines’ Carry-On Size

If you prefer a backpack for your carry-on, consider these options:

  1. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
    • Size: 18” x 12” x 7.8”
    • Fits under the seat and works for multiple airlines
    • Anti-theft design and USB charging port
  2. YOREPEK TSA-Friendly Backpack
    • Size: 18” x 8” x 13.9”
    • Spacious with 20 independent pockets
    • Ideal for organizing small travel essentials

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Airlines carry-on rules are straightforward. You can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item as long as they meet the airline’s size restrictions.

If your bag is too large, you may have to check it at the airport. While some passengers may get away with a slightly oversized carry-on, it’s not guaranteed—especially on busy flights.

To avoid extra fees, invest in a compliant carry-on bag that fits Hawaiian Airlines size requirements.

Hope this guide helps!

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